Perfect Grilled Burgers

Sharing is caring!

If there’s one thing that can bring people together, it’s a perfectly grilled burger.

Whether it’s a sunny day or a cozy evening, there’s nothing like the smell of burgers sizzling on the grill.

Today, I’m excited to share my go-to burger recipe that will have everyone begging for seconds.

With just a few simple ingredients and some grilling know-how, you’ll be able to create mouthwatering, juicy burgers that will impress your family and friends.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This burger recipe is incredibly simple and yet delivers flavors that are out of this world.

It highlights the natural goodness of the beef and features just the right amount of seasoning.

The use of butter on the buns adds a rich, flavorful touch that takes the burger experience to a whole new level.

Trust me; when you bite into one of these burgers, you’ll understand why they’re called “perfect.”

Ingredients

• 4 burger buns
• 4 tablespoons (42 g) salted butter, softened
• 1 – 1 ½ pounds (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend for the best juiciness)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 slices American cheese

How To Make Perfect Grilled Burgers

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Begin by placing the ground beef in a large mixing bowl.

The 80/20 blend is perfect for burgers because the higher fat content keeps them juicy and delicious.

Add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper to the beef.

Gently mix the seasonings into the meat, being careful not to overwork it.

Overworking can lead to tough burgers, and nobody wants that!

Step 2: Form the Patties

Once the beef is seasoned, divide it into equal portions.

For four burgers, aim for about 6 ounces of meat per patty.

Gently shape each portion into a patty about ¾ inch thick.

Make a slight indent in the center of each burger with your thumb.

This helps them cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up on the grill.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

While you’re forming your patties, it’s a good idea to preheat your grill.

Aim for medium-high heat.

If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are glowing red and covered with white ash.

For a gas grill, turn it on and let it heat for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 4: Butter the Buns

Now, it’s time to add a little extra flavor to your burger buns.

Spread about 1 tablespoon of softened salted butter on the cut sides of each bun.

This will help them get golden and crispy when you toast them on the grill.

Step 5: Grill the Burgers

Place the patties directly on the preheated grill.

Grill them for 3-4 minutes without flipping to get those beautiful grill marks and lock in the juices.

Then, flip each patty and continue grilling for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare.

If you prefer your burger a bit more well-done, leave them on for an additional minute or two.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

When your burgers are about a minute away from being done, place a slice of American cheese on top of each patty.

Close the lid of the grill to allow the cheese to melt beautifully.

Step 7: Toast the Buns

At the same time as you’re melting the cheese, place the buttered buns cut side down on the grill.

Toast them for about 1-2 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.

Keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly!

Step 8: Assemble Your Burgers

Once everything is grilled to perfection, it’s time to assemble your burgers! Start with the bottom half of the toasted bun, add the cheesy patty, and top with your favorite condiments.

The possibilities are endless—lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, or your favorite sauces!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overmix the meat. Just mix until the spices are incorporated for juicy burgers.
• If you’re grilling more than four patties, work in batches to prevent overcrowding on the grill.
• Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Aim for 160°F (70°C) for medium doneness.
• Always let your burgers rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps to keep them juicy.

Variations and Customizations

• Add minced garlic or onions to the beef for extra flavor.
• Try different types of cheese such as cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for a new twist.
• Make it spicy with jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free buns if you prefer a healthier or gluten-free option.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any burgers left over (though I doubt it!), allow them to cool completely.

Store the patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat them in the microwave or on the grill before serving.

Buns can be stored separately and toasted again for the best texture.

FAQ

Can I use leaner beef for my burgers?

Using a leaner beef, like 90/10, can lead to dry burgers.

It’s best to stick with an 80/20 blend for the juiciest results.

What are some good toppings for burgers?

Classic toppings include lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles.

You can also get creative with avocado, bacon, or sautéed mushrooms.

Can I make these burgers in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the patties in advance and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.

Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking for even grilling.

How do I know when my burgers are done?

Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate method.

A temperature of 160°F (70°C) is ideal for a safe and juicy burger.

Conclusion

Making the perfect grilled burgers doesn’t have to be complicated.

With quality ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create burgers that are juicy, flavorful, and utterly delicious.

Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or just a cozy dinner at home, these burgers are sure to be a hit.

So fire up that grill, gather your favorite toppings, and enjoy a fantastic burger experience!

Sharing is caring!